Read, Run, Ramble

Title: Rain Reign

Author: Ann M. Martin

Genre: Children’s Fiction

Publisher: Macmillan Children's Publishing Group

Publication Date: October 7, 2014

Format: egalley via Netgalley

Synopsis

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My review (published at Read, Run, Ramble):

Thank you Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group via Netgalley for providing me with an early copy of this book!

Rain Reign is a touching, beautifully written story about Rose, a young girl whose anchors in life are prime numbers, homonyms, and her dog, Rain.

When a terrible storm sweeps through Rose’s town, Rain goes missing and many things start to fall apart for the lovable Rose. Her father, who is rarely around anyway, has little patience for her idiosyncrasies and frequently does and says things that will irritate and infuriate readers (at least they did me), and at school she’s often removed from class to stand in the hall to get herself together (as the teachers state it). She does, however, have a strong bond with her uncle and readers will fall in love with the way he accepts and encourages his niece – he is the perfect balance to Rose’s father’s personality.

Though Rose struggles socially, she is very concerned with learning to use socially acceptable ways of interacting with others and finding friends. Her attempts are heartwarming and refreshing. This story, told from Rose’s point of view, gives readers a clear view of life inside the mind and life of someone with high-functioning Asperger’s. I love stories told from varying POVs like this and Martin did well. It is clear she’s done research and isn’t just through stereotypical details onto the page. Readers will feel connected to Rose; they will understand her struggles, her fears, and her joy!

The story takes a sad turn (well, more than one really; although, one so-called sad moment actually made me happy in a bittersweet way) and following Rose through the ordeal and how she not only accepts it, but flourishes in her attempts to resolve the situation, will leave readers smiling. Seriously, I don’t think any reader can complete this book without feeling a giant swell in their heart.

Martin has given readers a quick, easy, uplifting, and fabulous read that is perfect for children and adults alike. Pick this one up and while you’re at it, grab an extra copy for one of the kiddos in your life!

I was provided with an ARC of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I am not compensated for any of my reviews.